![DCU Arts and Culture header](/sites/default/files/styles/max_1300x1300/public/scholarship_editor/2022-12/DCU%20Official_DCU%20Arts%20%26%20Culture.png?itok=9UeLU4dI)
![Selection of images from Culture Night 2023. Crowds of children and adults, Building lit up with colourful lights, Tour guide talking and live brass band playing to an audience](/sites/default/files/styles/user_defined/public/dcu_global_editor/2024-07/cn-banner-template.png?itok=C_ri03qW)
Culture Night 2024 at DCU St. Patrick's Campus
For Culture Night 2024, DCU warmly invites you to an evening of entertainment on St. Patrick's Campus in Drumcondra! Enjoy a fun-filled lineup that includes circus performances, live music, art workshops, immersive tours, exhibitions, and sensory play. Set against the backdrop of DCU’s magnificent campus, this event offers a diverse range of activities designed for the whole family to enjoy. Don’t miss this vibrant celebration of culture and creativity. All events are drop-in with no booking required, unless otherwise specified next to the event.
Performances
![Juggler wearing red hat and blue jacket](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/newsletter-image-template-3.png?itok=ZLoueRrz)
Monsieur Gusto Circus show
Monsieur Gusto Circus show - All Tied Up!
The all-skills, no-frills circus show.
Don't miss Monsieur Gusto's awesome family Circus Show on Culture Night. With routines including Acrobatics, Magic, Juggling and an unforgettable Strait Jacket escape finale, this is one show not to miss!
Time: 5:30pm - 6:10pm
Age Group: All Ages
![Young musicians holding their instruments laugh and joke](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/newsletter-image-template.jpg?itok=ovKwpLTY)
The Artane Band
The Artane Band
Since 1872, the Artane Band has been rocking the stage and capturing hearts everywhere! From performing for every Irish President and Taoiseach to dazzling three U.S. Presidents and multiple UK monarchs, their legacy is nothing short of legendary. Known for their epic All-Ireland Sunday performances at Croke Park, they’re not just a band—they’re a musical institution. Join us for an unforgettable experience with the Artane Band—where history, talent, and community spirit come together in perfect harmony!
Time: 6:15pm - 6:45pm
Age Group: All Ages
![The Walkeleles](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/newsletter-image-template-8_0.png?itok=Rka7D36J)
The Walkeleles
The Walkeleles
Introducing The Walkeleles, whose unique brand of ukulele tomfoolery will charm the crowd. Whether singing, strumming, or simply sharing their love for music, The Walkeleles bring a special magic to Drumcondra. Don't miss the chance to experience their unforgettable performances that celebrate joy, community, and the simple pleasure of a great song.
Time: 6:45pm - 7:30pm
Age Group: All Ages
![Sally Cinnamon Culture Night](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/newsletter-image-template-9_0.png?itok=8ZV2ppKt)
DJ Sally Cinnamon
DJ Sally Cinnamon
Sally Cinnamon will bring a lively finale to Culture Night in the Fringe tent, infusing the evening with her signature energy. Sally is a beloved DJ, podcaster, and a master at getting people off their seats and onto the dance floor since 2001. With music woven into the fabric of her life, Sally's journey began at a young age—dancing before she could even walk to the soulful tunes that filled her home. Her deep passion for music shines through in every set, creating unforgettable experiences for audiences of all ages.
Time: 7:30pm - 9:00pm
Age Group: All Ages
![Four students playing musical instruments](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/newsletter-image-template-10_0.png?itok=YOrR_o4v)
Traditional Music by DCU TradSoc
Traditional Music by DCU TradSoc
Buail isteach ag an Seomra Caidrimh, Campas Phádraig OCBÁC do sheisiún Trad. Spéis agat páirt a ghlacadh – tabhair leat d’uirlisí ceoil nó bróga damhsa!
Join us for a lively trad session in the Seomra Caidrimh on the DCU St. Patrick's Campus. Interaction and crowd participation encouraged, so bring your instruments, singing voice and dancing feet along.
Am | Time: 5pm - 8pm
Aoisghrúpa | Age Group: All Ages
Láthair | Location: Seomra Caidrimh, SPD.D110
Traditional Games and Sports
![Selection of wooden childrens games](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/fuinseog-games-1.jpg?itok=9SajsnSb)
Bemusement Games
Bemusement Games
Step into the enchanting world of the Bemusement Games, crafted by Fuinseog Woodland Crafts, and experience a unique collection of traditional games. Each game is thoroughly handcrafted from Irish timbers, offering a selection of classic favourites.
Time: 5pm - 8pm
Age Group: All Ages
![Children playing with cones in a field](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/35.png?itok=mlSGSgT6)
DCU Sports and Traditional Games Area
DCU Sports and Traditional Games Area
Come along to the DCU Sports and Traditional Games Area for a lively and engaging experience! Participate in our Fit Family 10-Minute Movement Workshops, designed to get everyone moving and having fun. Challenge yourself with our exciting obstacle course or dive into traditional games like hula hooping and welly throwing. There's something for everyone in this vibrant space—come and play with us!
Time: 5:15pm & 6:15pm & 7:15pm
Age Group: All Ages
Creative Workshops
![Two children and two adults sitting creating art](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/culture-night-21th-sept-2023.jpg?itok=AsBSVQvn)
Scéal Away with Muireann Ní Chíobháin
Scéal Away with Muireann Ní Chíobháin
Get involved in an immersive storytelling experience with DCU's Irish Language Writer in Residence, Muireann Ní Chíobháin. Children will step into a world of sea adventures as Muireann guides them through captivating tales, sitting in a life-sized boat outline on the floor. They’ll then bring these stories to life by drawing their own adventure scenes. It's the perfect opportunity for young imaginations to set sail!
Am | Time: 5:15pm, 6:15pm & 7:15pm (first come first served)
Aoisghrúpa | Age Group: 2 - 8 years old
Láthair | Location: First Floor Cregan Library
Duration: 45 minutes
![Selection of artworks displayed in frames on a table](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/newsletter-image-template-11.png?itok=iV-3nxeg)
‘Art or AI?’ at the Museum of Very Modern Art
‘Art or AI?’ at the Museum of Very Modern Art
Can you tell if an artwork was crafted by a human or generated by AI? Test your skills, explore captivating artworks, and see how you score. This interactive workshop, hosted by SFI ADAPT’s #DiscussAI programme, invites you to join the conversation on AI’s impact on creativity. You'll see human-created works from public collections alongside AI-generated pieces from tools like DALL-E and Midjourney. Perfect for families curious about the future of art and technology!
Times: 5pm - 8pm
Age Group: Age 8+
Immersive and Interactive Experiences
![Street performers on stilts wearing red and white with black stripes](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/newsletter-image-template-2.png?itok=LqnqexW0)
Alchemy Arts Street Performers
Circus Stilt Walking and Unicyclist
Enjoy Alchemy Arts as they bring the vibrant energy and playful chaos of the circus to DCU this Culture Night! Be on the lookout for the dazzling Miss Diva Dee, towering above the crowd in her eye-catching stilt-walking costume, as she roams the grounds. And don’t miss the excitement—keep an eye out for a skilled unicyclist weaving through the festivities!
Time: Regular Intervals between 5pm and 8pm
Age Group: All Ages
![Giant Bubbles being created in a green field](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/newsletter-image-template-5_0.png?itok=8ObMb46z)
The Bubble Guys
The Bubble Guys
Do you love bubbles? Well, we do too! You’ll be amazed by the pop-up performances of Bubble-ologists. Expect a spectacular display of soap bubbles that will entertain not just the kids but also the kids-at-heart. The non-stop lively interaction will keep the kids entertained while the adults relax and enjoy the mesmerising spectacle.
Time: Regular Intervals between 5pm and 8pm
Age Group: All Ages
![sparkling coloured lights on trees along a walkway](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/newsletter-image-template-1.jpg?itok=ggeEeNpW)
Canopy of Lights
Canopy of Lights
As daylight fades, the Limetree walkway outside Cregan Library transforms into a captivating wonderland, illuminated by a vibrant and sparkling light installation.
Times: 5pm - 9pm
Age Group: All Ages
![Colourful bunting hanging in front of blue sky](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/bunting-.png?itok=WWDakAH3)
Threads of Culture: A Bunting Bonanza
Threads of Culture: A Bunting Bonanza
DCU Library invites the wider community to help us brighten St. Patrick’s Campus for Culture Night 2024! Join our competition to create colourful bunting that will transform the space into a dazzling, festive display. Contribute loose triangles or a finished piece, using sewn, knitted, or crocheted designs. Your sustainable, weatherproof creations will be part of this vibrant community celebration. Prizes await the best entries, so get crafting!
Times: 5pm - 9pm
Age Group: All Ages
Tours and Talks
![Dr Ruth McManus speaks to an audience outside Belvedere House](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/newsletter-image-template-8.png?itok=2uIbsWgF)
Guided tours of Belvedere House & St. Patrick’s campus
Guided tours of Belvedere House & St. Patrick’s campus
Join Dr Ruth McManus, DCU School of History and Geography, for a special guided tour that explores the historical, architectural and social fabric of St. Patrick's campus dating back to the 1600s. The tour will feature the notable Georgian Belvedere House, the Gothic Revival (former) chapel and attached cloister, and the modernist Our Lady Seat of Wisdom Chapel by architect Andy Devane.
Tour Times: 5.15pm & 6:30pm
Meeting Point: The steps of Belvedere House. Please arrive 5 minutes before the tour is due to start.
Age Group: 12+
Duration: 45 minutes
![People gathered at night on O'Connell Street & O'Connell Street Bridge in Dublin](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/newsletter-image-template-2.jpg?itok=Kn5HcEIG)
O'Connell Street: Dublin's Stage of History and Celebration
O'Connell Street: Dublin's Stage of History and Celebration
Discover the story of O'Connell Street, Dublin's principal space for commemoration, protest, and celebration, from its 19th-century origins as a hub for national and international events to its vibrant commercial success. Journey through 200 years of key public events, from historic demonstrations to recent celebrations like the return of our Olympians. Dr. Joe Rodgers (DCU Library and the School of History & Geography), who recently completed his PhD on the history of O'Connell Street, will guide you through its rich history.
Tour Times: 6pm & 7pm
Meeting Point: Board Room (G401) Top floor Cregan Library
Age Group: 12+
Duration: 20 minutes
![People standing on a balcony looking out](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/33.png?itok=JBvCgtNn)
Guided tours of the Cregan Library
Guided tours of the Cregan Library
DCU’s Cregan Library has become a landmark building in north Dublin since it opened its doors in 2015. The library was designed to form a visual link between the campus and the community, with a three-storey glass lantern overlooking the village of Drumcondra. This tour will give you an insight into this extraordinary piece of modern architecture, designed by Taylor Architects.
Tour Times: 5pm, 6:15pm, 7pm & *7:30pm (*Tour will be ‘as Gaeilge’ at 7:30pm)
Meeting Point: Cregan Library Reception
Age Group: 12+
Duration: 30 minutes
![People gathering in courtyard in front of red brick chapel](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/newsletter-image-template-10.png?itok=GIkLkpqJ)
Poetry Trail with Poet in Residence Anne Tannam
A Walking and Poetry Tour of St. Patrick’s campus with Poet in Residence Anne Tannam
Join us for a one-of-a-kind experience at the Campus Poetry Ginko, led by Poetry Ireland's Poet in Residence, Anne Tannam. Let your feet do the walking and your poetry do the talking! With notebook and pen in hand, embark on a poetic journey across St Patrick's campus. Be part of a creative adventure that blends the tranquility of DCU with the power of words.
Tour Time: 6pm - 7pm
Meeting Point: Front Door of Belvedere House
Age Group: 12+
Duration: 60 minutes
![Inside Cregan Library building with books on the left side of the image and orange windows on the right](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/newsletter-image-template-5.png?itok=jLnRKE_5)
The Library Rocks! Family Scavenger Hunt
The Library Rocks! Family Scavenger Hunt
Join us for a self-guided scavenger hunt in Cregan Library! Search for ten special painted rocks hidden throughout the library and answer fun questions about each one. Start by picking up your scavenger hunt sheet from the ground floor desk, and complete it at your own pace. Once you've found all the rocks and filled in your answers, return to the desk to claim your prize!
Times: 5pm - 8pm
Age Group: Age 3+
Exhibitions
![Image of DCU and The Helix from a height with multiple layers of repetitive images](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/image-1.jpg?itok=tGqb7owF)
Navigating Campus Through Autistic Perspectives
Navigating Campus Through Autistic Perspectives
This exhibition uses images and video to highlight the contrast between busy and quiet spaces on campus from the perspective of autistic students and an autistic artist. It demonstrates how quiet areas provide essential calm, focus, and sensory adjustment, helping autistic individuals balance bustling and serene environments. Featuring visual depictions of campus settings and a video mapping motion intensity, this exhibition underscores the critical role of creating inclusive, supportive spaces. Without these quiet spaces, some autistic students would struggle to complete their day at DCU.
Time: 5pm - 8pm
Location: Room G315 (Group Study Room) - Second Floor Cregan Library
Age group: All Ages
![Selection of artwork by people from a forced displacement background hanging on a glass wall](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/newsletter-image-template-6_0.png?itok=rTTMZ9zx)
'Sticking Together' - The MELLIE Project
'Sticking Together' - The MELLIE Project
Come see this wonderful exhibition of work by The MELLIE Project, a heartwarming initiative that’s been connecting people since 2017. Led by Dr. Julie Daniel and supported by the University of Sanctuary, this project pairs DCU staff and students with individuals from backgrounds of forced displacement for a semester.
Times: 5pm - 9pm
Location: Ground Floor - Cregan Library
Age Group: All Ages
Sensory Friendly Spaces
![Colourful Bus with plants and beans bags](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/senco-bus-.png?itok=DYZJKLca)
Senco Sensory Bus
The Sensory Express Bus
The bus is a magical sensory haven that includes a bubble tube and waterwall along with projection for some fantastic visual feedback, a colour-changing ball pool for proprioceptive fun, a light-up dance floor to get rid of some excess energy, sensory grass and liquid lava tiles that are tactile and a vibration and fibre optic bench area for calming and regulation. It is fully equipped with the latest sensory products on the market and is wheelchair accessible.
Time: 5pm - 8pm
Booking required (The use of this bus is exclusively for autistic children, children with sensory sensitivities, or children who genuinely need it)
Age Group: All Ages
![Selection of coloured plastic balls](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/newsletter-image-template-6_1.png?itok=q_gPGzn6)
Sensory Play Space
Sensory Play Space
Visit our sensory-friendly space in the beautiful lantern area of Cregan Library. This area features calming lighting, comfortable beanbags, and a variety of sensory toys, creating a relaxing environment for all. The space is overseen by Embrace Autism, a local parent group committed to supporting autistic individuals and their families.
Times: 5pm - 9pm
Age Group: All Ages
Location: Outside the exhibition Navigating Campus Through Autistic Perspectives - Room G315 Second Floor Cregan Library
Grab a bite!
![Food truck illuminated by blue fluorescent lights](/sites/default/files/styles/traditional_television/public/staff/2024-08/grab-a-bite_0.png?itok=0M06w9qR)
Grab a bite!
Grab a bite!
Arrive early and explore our delicious food offerings! Savor a slice from our pizza truck, grab a coffee or a light bite at the café, and cool off with a sweet treat from the ice cream van. Come hungry and enjoy!
Times: 5pm - 9pm
FAQs
The majority of the event space is accessible however, there will be some activity which takes place on the grass area. This can be uneven in places and may become slippery when wet.
We would request that anyone with special accessibility requirements please notify us prior to the event at dcuartsandculture@dcu.ie
DCU - St. Patrick’s campus
Access to these events is via the pedestrian entrance to St. Patrick’s campus (off Upper Drumcondra Road). This entrance is located beside Cregan Library and Lidl. Access will not be granted via the vehicle entrance. Attendees will be redirected to the pedestrian entrance.
There is no parking available on St Patrick campus. We ask people to walk, cycle or take public transport to St. Patricks Campus. Attendees with special requirements will be accommodated.
Bus routes 3, 11, 13, and 16 all stop a short distance away from the location, on Drumcondra Road.
Family events for ages 3+ and beyond. We ask all minors under 16 to be accompanied by an adult at all times. DCU does not accept any parental or supervisory duty of care or liability for any under 16s on site
Seating is limited for the 'performance events' so please if you can, bring picnic blankets or camper chairs. If the weather is good the grass will be a comfy option however as this is an outdoor event the grass may be slippery when wet so please keep this in mind.
A buggy park will be available. Buggys are left at owners risk.
Please note that photography and videography will be captured at this event. If you have any objections to this, please let us know.
We will have safe spaces for anyone with regulation issues.
Hot drinks and snacks will be available from our cafe kiosk located in the Cregan Library. There will also be hot food and ice cream available to purchase from our on-site mobile catering units.
Please note, alcohol is not permitted.
There are no dogs allowed at this event due to the loud music, noise, young children running around and space available. (except guide dogs and support dogs)
Please follow @dcuartsandculture and @dcu_library on instagram for updates
Terms and Conditions
DCU reserves the right to refuse admission.
Some of this event take place outdoors, which means that the grass and walkway may be slippery when wet.
Every effort will be made to stay to the scheduled times, however these may vary.
DCU reserves the right to add, withdraw, cancel or substitute artists and to vary the advertised programme as necessary.
Attendees assume all risk of injury and all responsibility for property loss, destruction or theft and release the promoters, performers and sponsors from any liability thereafter.
DCU asks that all minors Under 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. DCU can not accept any parental or supervisory duty of care or liability for any Under 16s on site.
We ask all attendees to support us to keep the campus clean and bring your refuse home with you or use the waste bins provided on site. Glass bottles are not permitted.